Swanton teachers’ contract approved

A new contract has been approved for teachers in the Swanton Local Schools district.

At a special meeting on Wednesday, the Swanton Board of Education approved the two-year contract. The members of the Swanton Education Association (SEA) also approved the contract, according to Josh Eppert, SEA president.

The contract covers the 2018-19 and 2019-20 school years.

“I am very happy with the results of the negotiations with the SEA.,” said Chris Lake, Swanton superintendent. “I feel that we have a solid relationship with our teachers union and this allowed us to have a cordial and productive negotiation, which produced a contract that offered benefits to both sides.”

One percent will be added to the base salary in each year for all teachers. This will bring the base salary to $34,432 in the 2019-20 school year.

Some supplemental contracts will also be increased slightly, Lake said. Middle school boys and girls track went from 6 percent to 7 percent, assistant middle school went from 5 percent to 6 percent, girls volleyball will have one assistant earn 11 percent and freshman/assistant added at 10 percent. The changes were designed to make equality through the sports.

In addition, mentor coordinator will go from 6 percent to 7 percent, and full year mentor from 5 percent to 6 percent.

Monthly contributions to health and prescription coverage and dental will remain at 10 percent for the duration of the contract. A step 30 was also added to the salary schedule.